Key Takeaways
- Phoenix is home to some of the most reputable social work programs in the Southwest, led by Arizona State University’s accredited BSW and MSW degrees.
- Students can pursue online, hybrid, or traditional on-campus formats depending on their schedule and career goals.
- Licensure in Arizona requires a CSWE-accredited degree and successful completion of the ASWB exam.
- Graduates enjoy strong employment prospects in healthcare, education, and community-based organizations throughout Arizona.
Best Social Work Programs in Phoenix
Phoenix, Arizona, is emerging as a leader in social work education in the Southwest due to its population diversity, strong healthcare sector, and growing demand for behavioral and community health professionals. Whether you are pursuing an undergraduate foundation in social work or an advanced clinical practice degree, the city offers a range of accredited programs designed to prepare students for licensure and meaningful community impact.
Top Accredited Social Work Schools in Phoenix
The following institutions provide Council on Social Work Education (CSWE)-accredited programs—essential for obtaining licensure as a social worker in Arizona.
1. Arizona State University (ASU) School of Social Work
Location: Downtown Phoenix Campus
Degrees Offered: Bachelor of Social Work (BSW), Master of Social Work (MSW), Doctor of Behavioral Health (DBH)
Accreditation: CSWE
ASU’s School of Social Work is one of the largest and most respected in the country. The program emphasizes hands-on experience, offering students over 500 internship sites across Arizona. The BSW curriculum focuses on foundational social justice and human behavior, while the MSW allows for specialization in areas like policy, child welfare, and integrated healthcare. ASU also offers an Online MSW for working professionals seeking flexibility without sacrificing quality.
2. Grand Canyon University (GCU)
Location: West Phoenix
Degrees Offered: Bachelor of Science in Sociology with an Emphasis in Social Work, Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC); Social work program seeking CSWE accreditation
GCU integrates Christian values into social work education, emphasizing ethics, community service, and cultural competence. The curriculum blends theory with practice-based learning and includes field placement opportunities in local nonprofits and healthcare systems. The hybrid learning format supports professionals balancing work, family, and education.
3. Northern Arizona University (NAU) – Phoenix Biomedical Campus
Location: Phoenix Biomedical Campus
Degrees Offered: Bachelor of Social Work (BSW), Master of Social Work (MSW)
Accreditation: CSWE
NAU’s extension in downtown Phoenix enables students to study social work with an emphasis on indigenous communities, rural populations, and behavioral health. The program connects students with tribal social services, Veterans Affairs, and statewide agencies to gain applied experience. Small class sizes and mentorship from experienced faculty are standout features.
4. University of Phoenix
Location: Online; headquartered in Phoenix
Degrees Offered: Bachelor of Science in Human Services, Master of Science in Counseling
Accreditation: HLC
While University of Phoenix does not offer a CSWE-accredited BSW or MSW, its human services and counseling degrees provide foundational skills aligned with social work practice. Working adults appreciate the flexibility of online and part-time options that can serve as a bridge to graduate social work programs.
Program Comparison: Key Metrics
University Program Type Accreditation Format Typical Duration Internship Requirement Arizona State University BSW, MSW, Online MSW CSWE On-campus, Hybrid, Online BSW: 4 yrs / MSW: 2 yrs Yes (400–900 hrs) Grand Canyon University BS Sociology (SW emphasis), MS Counseling HLC / Pending CSWE Hybrid, Online BS: 4 yrs / MS: 2 yrs Yes (field experience) Northern Arizona University BSW, MSW CSWE On-campus, Hybrid BSW: 4 yrs / MSW: 2 yrs Yes (internship/field) University of Phoenix B.S. Human Services, M.S. Counseling HLC Online Self-paced Optional
Online and Hybrid Options
Flexible formats are increasingly popular among aspiring social workers. ASU’s Online MSW is fully CSWE-accredited and mirrors the rigor of its on-campus counterpart. NAU’s hybrid MSW blends weekend campus sessions with asynchronous online coursework, ideal for professionals already employed in human services roles. Grand Canyon University’s digital platform allows students to complete coursework virtually while maintaining real-world field placements locally.
Licensing Requirements for Social Workers in Arizona
To become a licensed social worker in Arizona, applicants must:
- Earn a CSWE-accredited BSW or MSW.
- Apply for licensure through the Arizona Board of Behavioral Health Examiners (AzBBHE).
- Pass the appropriate level of the ASWB Exam (Bachelor’s, Master’s, or Clinical).
- Complete supervised post-graduate experience (for LCSW applicants, typically 3,200 hours).
- Maintain continuing education requirements to renew licensure every two years.
Graduates from ASU and NAU often exceed average exam pass rates due to their robust clinical and policy training, making them well-prepared for immediate licensure.
Career Outlook and Salary Trends in Phoenix
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, demand for social workers in Arizona is projected to grow by nearly 11% through 2032, faster than the national average. The Phoenix metro area, with its expanding healthcare systems, schools, and community organizations, offers diverse employment opportunities.
- Average Salary (Phoenix area): $58,900 annually
- Top Employers: Banner Health, Arizona Department of Child Safety, Phoenix VA Health Care System, local school districts, and nonprofit agencies
- High-growth areas: Mental health, school social work, substance abuse counseling, and medical case management
What Students Say
ASU social work students consistently highlight the program’s supportive faculty and extensive field placement options. Many graduates emphasize the community impact they experienced through local partnerships with organizations like Chicanos Por La Causa and Valleywise Health. Meanwhile, NAU students appreciate the school’s focus on cultural competence and opportunities to work directly with tribal and rural populations across the state.
Choosing the Right Social Work Program in Phoenix
When selecting a social work program, prospective students should consider:
- Accreditation: CSWE accreditation is mandatory for licensure eligibility.
- Field Experience: Evaluate internship sites and community partnerships that align with your interests, such as child welfare or healthcare.
- Flexibility: Working adults may prefer online or hybrid models for balancing education with employment.
- Tuition and Aid: Compare in-state tuition (ASU and NAU) versus private tuition (GCU), as well as scholarship opportunities and financial aid availability.
- Career Support: Look for programs offering job placement assistance and alumni mentorship networks.
Financial Aid and Scholarships
Most Phoenix-based programs provide need-based aid, federal loans, and scholarships. ASU’s College of Public Service awards merit-based scholarships specifically for first-generation and transfer students pursuing social work. The NASW Foundation and Arizona Community Foundation also offer scholarships for BSW and MSW candidates committed to public service.
Conclusion
Phoenix stands as an exceptional environment to launch or advance a career in social work, offering accredited education, diverse field experiences, and strong community networks. With options ranging from ASU’s nationally ranked programs to NAU’s culturally grounded curriculum and GCU’s values-based approach, future social workers can find a program that aligns with both their professional goals and personal mission to make a difference.
Frequently Asked Questions about Social Work Programs in Phoenix
What social work degrees can you earn in Phoenix?
In Phoenix, you can earn CSWE-accredited BSW and MSW degrees at Arizona State University and Northern Arizona University. You can also study related fields such as sociology with a social work emphasis, human services, and counseling at Grand Canyon University and University of Phoenix.
Do you need a CSWE-accredited degree to become a social worker in Arizona?
Yes. To qualify for social work licensure in Arizona, you must earn a BSW or MSW from a CSWE-accredited program and pass the appropriate ASWB exam. ASU and NAU both offer CSWE-accredited social work degrees that meet this requirement.
Can you complete a social work degree online in Phoenix?
Yes. ASU offers a fully online CSWE-accredited MSW, and NAU provides hybrid formats that mix online coursework with campus sessions. Grand Canyon University and University of Phoenix also offer online and hybrid programs in related human services and counseling fields.
How long does it take to finish a social work program in Phoenix?
A BSW or related bachelor’s degree usually takes about four years of full-time study. An MSW typically takes about two years after your bachelor’s degree. Some online and part-time formats may take longer but offer more flexibility if you work while studying.
What is the job outlook and salary for social workers in Phoenix?
Demand for social workers in Arizona is projected to grow by about 11% through 2032, faster than the national average, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. In the Phoenix area, the average salary for social workers is around $58,900 per year, with strong opportunities in healthcare, schools, and community agencies.
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